Keeping the indoors interesting
By Sarah Ledford
It will not be long before the bar patios will be closed, and parties will be forced to move indoors. This winter, remember that there are plenty of fun things to do if cooped in the house.
Have a potluck.
Invite your friends over for a girl's night, or invite both genders, for a good old potluck. Maybe go for a theme, such as Mexican or Italian food and drinks. This will allow everyone to enjoy a good homemade meal, swap recipes, and enjoy some good conversation.
Board games n' such.
You're never too old to make a fun night out of playing some board games. Games such as Apples to Apples, Taboo, and Catch Phrase, are just a few good choices that get everyone involved and excited.
Theme party.
Although at times it may be nearly impossible to venture out to parties, maybe try hosting a small one that will allow your guests to just venture out to one destination. Ask people to bring certain things, maybe people with the last names A through J, for example. Keep in mind, it's hard to go wrong with a Hawaiian theme party that will allow everyone to imagine that they are somewhere with warm weather and sunny beaches. We can dream, can't we?
Cards.
Who doesn't like to play some cards? Ask your friends to come prepared to introduce a new card game to everyone. Take turns, mix it up, and keep it interesting by rotating card games. Maybe try organizing a weekly card night with friends, such as a weekly poker night.
Wine night.
Whether casually sitting around talking with friends, or hosting a cocktail party that allows people to dress up, both are a fun and different way to enjoy an evening. Some of the best nights are when you get a chance to really talk to and catch up with your girlfriends. Doing that over a glass of wine — even better!
Power hours.
Make a DVD power hour, consisting of music videos, movie clips, and so on. Invite some friends over, and enjoy the show!
Be crafty.
Spend time with your roommates and friends, and try just making or painting something you have been wanting, rather than spending the extra money and buying it already complete. Set up a table and invite friends, especially ones with new places, to come and partake in a crafty, decorating party.
DVR shows/movie night.
Find a show that you and most of your friends enjoy, or maybe pick one to begin watching together, and make it a weekly event. Take turns making snacks each week. Good television and chips and dip or brownies — what could be better?
Clothes swap.
Invite some girlfriends and have a clothes swap. It gives you a chance to clean out your closet and get some new things for free. Ask your friends to bring clothes, shoes, purses, and jewelry that they just do not wear anymore or that do not fit. Take turns, or just lay out all of your items and start swapping.
Dog date.
Invite some friends over with their pets. It gives your pet an opportunity to interact with other dogs, and gives you a chance to swap advice and dog stories.
Mary Kay, etc.
Host a Mary Kay party, or if you happen to know someone who hosts a jewelry or purse party, invite them over! Allow you and your friends to try out products, get tips and pamper yourself.
Sports & award shows.
Invite some guys and gals over, and ask everyone to wear a jersey or shirt representing their favorite NFL team. Everyone should bring a snack to share, and then you can all enjoy the game!
Make the times spent with friends interesting. Try some new things, and dare to break from your ordinary Friday night routine. Even the simplest or most laidback events can sometimes be the most enjoyable time spent together.
Originally Published: Issue 673 - October 15, 2008
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